Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Merely ten months ago, in October 2022, I was engulfed in anxiety, uncertainty, and a fair amount of trepidation. I was on the brink of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London. Being naturally more introverted, plunging into such a substantial life change was intimidating. However, reflecting on this past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, challenges surmounted, and innumerable unforgettable experiences. So, what insights have I gained—and what’s my current status?
One of the most significant and intimidating obstacles I encountered early on was forging friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this might be among your top worries as well. I vividly recall my initial day in student housing, right before the term commenced—I isolated myself in my room all day, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I confidently affirm I’ve developed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced. These connections have come to feel like a second family. What made it easier? Simply starting with small interactions—talking to others who were just as new and uncertain as I was. My key takeaway? Embrace that leap early on. Even if you don’t feel prepared, numerous ice-breakers and social gatherings will facilitate connections. And above all, be authentic. With such a varied student community, you’re bound to find those you resonate with.
Academically, the shift from A-levels to university coursework presented another significant challenge. The volume of work increased substantially, and the transition from the first to the second term was particularly intense. It’s easy to feel like you’re lagging when witnessing others studying diligently or quickly grasping concepts. But here’s a crucial lesson I learned: everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you find yourself struggling to comprehend something, it’s likely others are experiencing the same. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from classmates or faculty. Developing the skill to ask for help is one of the most invaluable tools you can cultivate in your first year.
In terms of support, the assistance from the Materials department has been outstanding. The lecturers and tutors genuinely prioritize our success and well-being. They recognize the pressures students encounter and are always receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, and I regret not doing so sooner. One initiative I undertook early on was becoming a year well-being representative. This position offered me the chance to establish relationships with staff, which proved to be incredibly beneficial. There are countless ways to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can significantly enhance your university experience. My counsel? Make the most of all the support available—you can never have too much.
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxiety I felt before and at the university’s outset was normal—but also manageable. With the right support and perspective, those fears can be conquered. I’ve discovered that I’m never truly alone, and it’s feasible to balance diligent effort with enjoyment, even during stressful periods like exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London